View source for Independence-class littoral combat ship

{{distinguish|Independence-class littoral mission vessel}}
{{For|the class of aircraft carrier|Independence-class aircraft carrier}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=January 2016}}
{|{{Infobox ship begin}}
{{Infobox ship image
| Ship image               =[[File:USS Independence (LCS-2) at Naval Air Station Key West, 29 March 2010 (100329-N-1481K-298).jpg|300px|border]]
| Ship caption             ={{USS|Independence|LCS-2|6}} at [[Naval Air Station Key West]] in March 2009.
}}
{{Infobox ship class overview
|Name=''Independence'' class
| Builders                 = [[Austal USA]]
| Operators                = {{navy|US}}
| Class before             = {{sclass-|Oliver Hazard Perry|frigate}}
| Class after              = [[FFG(X)]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.popularmechanics.com/military/navy-ships/news/a27258/navy-looking-for-a-new-frigate-replace-littoral-combat-ship/|title=The Navy Is Looking for a New Frigate to Replace the Troubled Littoral Combat Ship|date=11 July 2017|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/articles/us-navy-releases-specs-for-a-proposed-guided-missile-frigate-a-break-from-the-littoral-combat-ship|title=Frigate competition wide open: US Navy specs reveal major design shift|first=Defense|last=News|website=Defense News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedrive.com/the-war-zone/12324/in-a-blow-to-lcs-the-us-navy-finally-admits-it-needs-a-real-frigate|title=In a Blow to LCS, the US Navy Finally Admits it Needs a Real Frigate|first=Joseph|last=Trevithick|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://foxtrotalpha.jalopnik.com/the-littoral-combat-ship-is-a-disaster-and-this-is-the-1796783565|title=The Littoral Combat Ship Is A Disaster And This Is The Solution|first=Gary|last=Wetzel|publisher=Jalopnik|work=Foxtrot Alpha}}</ref>
| Subclasses               = 
| Cost                     = $704 million First Ship<ref name="militarytimes.com">{{cite web|last=Ewing |first=Philip |url=http://militarytimes.com/news/2009/06/navy_lcs2_delay_062909w/ |title=LCS 2 delays trials after engine issue |work=[[Military Times]] |date=29 June 2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}} {{subscription required}}</ref> Future Ships $360 million
| Built range              = 
| In commission range      = 
| Total ships planned      =19
| Total ships on order     =5
| Total ships building     =7
| Total ships completed    =7
| Total ships cancelled    = 
| Total ships active       =7
| Total ships laid up      = 
| Total ships lost         = 
| Total ships retired      = 
| Total ships scrapped     = 
| Total ships preserved    = 
}}
{{Infobox ship characteristics
|Ship type=[[Littoral combat ship]]
|Ship displacement=2,307 metric tons light, 3,104 metric tons full, 797 metric tons deadweight<ref name="NVR">{{cite web
|title=USS Independence (LCS 2)|publisher=[[Naval Vessel Register]]|url={{NVR url|id=LCS2}}|accessdate=11 September 2016}}</ref>
|Ship length= {{convert|418|ft|m|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="NVR"/>
|Ship beam= {{convert|104|ft|m|0|abbr=on}}<ref name="NVR"/>
|Ship draft= {{convert|14|ft|m|1|abbr=on}}<ref name="NVR"/>
|Ship propulsion=*2 x [[General Electric]] [[LM2500]] [[gas turbine]]s
*2 × [[MTU Friedrichshafen]] 20V 8000 Series diesel engines<ref>{{cite press release | title=GE and U.S. Navy Celebrate 40th Operating Anniversary of LM2500 Gas Turbine | publisher=GE Aviation | date=27 October 2009 | url=http://www.geae.com/aboutgeae/presscenter/marine/marine_20091027.html |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
*2 x American VULKAN light weight multiple-section carbon fiber propulsion shaftlines
*2 x LJ160E &
*2 x LJ150E [[Wärtsilä]] [[pump-jet|waterjet]]s,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dieselpowermag.com/features/1002dp_uss_independence_lcs_2/ge_lm2500_gas_turbines.html |title=USS Independence LCS-2 - GE LM2500 Gas Turbines |last=Thompson |first=Jason |date=1 February 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015 |work=Diesel Power Magazine |publisher=TruckTrend Network}}</ref>
*retractable bow-mounted [[azimuth thruster]]
*4 × diesel generators
|Ship speed={{convert|44|kn|mph km/h|0}}<ref>{{cite news |url=http://komonews.com/news/nation-world/navys-newest-warships-top-out-at-more-than-50-mph-11-21-2015 |title=Navy's newest warships top out at more than 50 mph |last=Sharp |first=David |agency=Associated Press |work=KOMO News |date=22 October 2009 |accessdate=21 July 2016}}</ref>
|Ship range={{convert|4,300|nmi|km|lk=in|0}} at {{convert|18|kn|km/h|0}}<ref>{{cite web|url=http://blog.al.com/live/2010/04/in_high-stakes_lcs_competition.html |title=In high-stakes LCS competition, disagreement on how to rank the best deal |last=Reilly |first=Sean |date=4 April 2010 |publisher=al.com |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
|Ship complement=40 core crew (8 officers, 32 enlisted) plus up to 35 mission crew
|Ship capacity=210 metric tons (206 long tons, 231 short tons)
|Ship sensors=*[[Saab AB|SAAB]] AN/SPS-77(V)1 [[GIRAFFE Radar|Sea GIRAFFE]] 3D air and surface search radar<ref name="Navtech">{{cite web
| title=Littoral Combat Ship (LCS), United States of America | publisher=www.naval-technology.com | url=http://www.naval-technology.com/projects/littoral/ | accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
* [[Sperry Marine Northrop Grumman|Sperry Marine]] BridgeMaster E navigational radar
* AN/KAX-2 electro-optical sensor with [[TV]] and [[FLIR]]
* [[Northrop Grumman]] ICMS (Integrated Combat Management System)<ref name="Navtech"/>
|Ship EW=* [[ITT Corporation]] ES-3601 [[Electronic Support Measures|ESM]] system<ref name="Navtech"/>
* 4 × [[SRBOC]] decoy launchers for [[Chaff (radar countermeasure)|chaff]] and [[infrared]] decoys<ref name="Navtech"/>
* [[BAE Systems Land and Armaments|BAE Systems]] [[Nulka|NULKA]] active radar decoy system<ref name="Navtech"/>
|Ship armament=* 1 × [[BAE Systems Land and Armaments|BAE Systems]] [[Mk 110 57 mm gun]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.gdlcs.com/media-center/media-kit |title=GDLCS Media Center |publisher=AUSTAL/General Dynamics |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
* 1 × [[Raytheon]] [[SeaRAM]] [[CIWS]]<ref name="Navtech"/>
* 4 × .50-cal guns (2 aft, 2 forward)
* 2 × 30 mm [[Mk44 Bushmaster II]] guns (part of SUW module)
* 24 × [[AGM-114 Hellfire|AGM-114L Hellfire]] missiles (planned part of SUW module)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navyrecognition.com/index.php?option=com_content&task=view&id=1900 |title=Q & A with the U.S. Navy on Lockheed Martin Hellfire missiles for Littoral Combat Ships |publisher=Navyrecognition.com |date=17 July 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
*Other weapons as part of mission modules
|Ship armor=
|Ship aircraft=* 1 × [[SH-60 Seahawk|MH-60R/S Seahawk]]
* 2 × [[MQ-8B Fire Scout]]s or 1 × MQ-8C Fire Scout<ref>{{cite web|url=http://breakingdefense.com/2014/12/fire-scout-grows-up-drone-getting-radar-rockets-2016-ioc/ |title=Fire Scout Grows Up: Drone Getting Radar, Rockets, 2016 IOC |last=Freedburg Jr. |first=Sydney J. |publisher=Breakingdefense.com |date=17 December 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>
|Ship aircraft facilities=
|Ship notes=
}}
|}
The '''''Independence'' class''' is a [[ship class|class]] of [[littoral combat ship]]s built for the [[United States Navy]].

The hull design evolved from a project at [[Austal]] to design a 40 knot cruise ship. That hull design evolved into the high-speed [[trimaran]] ferry {{ship|HSC|Benchijigua Express||6}} and the ''Independence'' class was then proposed by [[General Dynamics]] and Austal as a contender for Navy plans to build a fleet of small, multipurpose warships to operate in the [[littoral zone]]. Two ships were approved, to compete with [[Lockheed Martin]]'s {{sclass-|Freedom|littoral combat ship|0}} design.

Despite initial plans to only build ships of the winner out of the two competing ''Independence'' or ''Freedom'' classes, in 2010 the Navy announced plans to order up to ten additional ships of each class, for a total 12 ships per class.<ref name="NNS101229-09">{{cite press release |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=57917 |title=Littoral Combat Ship Contract Award Announced |author=Special from Navy Office of Information |publisher=Navy News Service |id=NNS101229-09 |date=29 December 2010 |accessdate=30 October 2015 }}</ref> In March 2016 the Navy announced their intention to order an additional two ships, increasing the order to 13 ships of each class.<ref>{{cite news|last1=Sick|first1=Hope Hodge|title=Two More Littoral Combat Ships Under Contract|url=http://www.dodbuzz.com/2016/04/01/two-more-littoral-combat-ships-under-contract/|accessdate=25 November 2016|work=DoD Buzz|publisher=[[Military.com]]|date=1 April 2016}}</ref>

It was announced in early September 2016 that the first four vessels of the LCS program would be used as test ships rather than being deployed with the fleet.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.spacewar.com/reports/US_Navy_announces_Littoral_Combat_Ship_program_overhaul_999.html|title=U.S. Navy announces Littoral Combat Ship program overhaul|publisher=}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnn.com/2016/09/12/politics/us-navy-littoral-combat-ship-overhaul/index.html|title=US Navy overhauls troubled littoral combat ship program|first=Brad Lendon and Ryan Browne|last=CNN|website=CNN}}</ref>  This includes [[lead ship]] {{USS|Independence|LCS-2|2}} and {{USS|Coronado|LCS-4|2}}.

{{As of|2018|5}}, seven ships have been commissioned. Starting in 2019, ships of this class will be designated as fast [[frigates]] (FF) which will include increased firepower and heavier armor.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.navytimes.com/story/military/2015/01/15/navy-secretary-mabus-littoral-combat-ship-fast-frigate/21805513/|title=navy-secretary-mabus-littoral-combat-ship-fast-frigate|first=Navy|last=Times|website=Navy Times}}</ref>

==Planning and construction==
[[File:USS Independence (LCS 2) building.jpg|thumb|left|''Independence'' under construction, 2007.]]
Planning for a class of small, multipurpose warships to operate in the littoral zone began in the early 2000s. In July 2003, a proposal by General Dynamics (partnering with Austal USA, the American subsidiary of Australian shipbuilder Austal) was approved by the Navy, with a contract for two vessels.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.generaldynamics.com/news/press_releases/2003/July17,%202003%20News%20Release-3.htm |title=General Dynamics Bath Iron Works Team Wins Preliminary Design Award for U.S. Navy’s Littoral Combat Ship |publisher=General Dynamics |date=17 July 2003 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20100206131806/http://generaldynamics.com/news/press_releases/2003/July17%2C%202003%20News%20Release-3.htm |archivedate=6 February 2010 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> These would then be compared to two ships built by Lockheed Martin to determine which design would be taken up by the Navy for a production run of up to 55 ships.

The first ship, ''Independence'' was laid down at the Austal USA shipyard in [[Mobile, Alabama]], on 19 January 2006. The planned second ship was cancelled in November 2007, but reordered in May 2009, and laid down in December of that year as ''Coronado'', shortly before ''Independence'' was launched.<ref>{{cite press release |title= Navy Terminates Littoral Combat Ship (LCS 4) Contract |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |id=1269-07 |date=1 November 2007 |url=http://www.defenselink.mil/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=11449|accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref><ref name="prnewswire.com">{{cite web|url=http://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/general-dynamics-littoral-combat-ship-team-delivers-independence-lcs-2-and-lays-keel-for-coronado-lcs-4-79674292.html |title=General Dynamics Littoral Combat Ship Team Delivers Independence (LCS 2) and Lays Keel for Coronado (LCS 4) |publisher=PR Newswire |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

The development and construction of ''Independence'' as of June 2009 was running at more than 3 times budget. The total projected cost for the ship is $704 million. The Navy had originally projected the cost at $220 million.<ref name="militarytimes.com"/> ''Independence'' began builder's trials in July 2009, three days behind schedule because of maintenance issues.<ref>{{cite web |last=Ewing |first=Philip |url=http://militarytimes.com/news/2009/07/navy_lcs2_sea_trials_070209w/ |title=LCS 2 begins sea trials after 3-day delay |work=[[Military Times]] |date=3 July 2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}} {{subscription required}}</ref> A leak in the port gas turbine saw the order of trials altered, but builder's and acceptance trials were completed by November,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.navytimes.com/news/2009/08/navy_lcs_indy_080309w/ |title=Turbine-seal leak means more tests for LCS 2 |last=Ewing |first=Philip |work=NavyTimes |date=4 August 2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}} {{subscription required}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |url=http://militarytimes.com/news/2009/11/navy_DN_111909_LCStrials/ |title=Trials successful for 2nd LCS hull |work=[[Military Times]] |date=21 November 2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}} {{subscription required}}</ref> and although her first [[INSURV]] inspection revealed 2,080 deficiencies, these were rectified in time for the ship to be handed over to the Navy in mid-December, and commissioned in mid-January 2010.<ref name="prnewswire.com"/><ref>{{cite web|title=Navy News Service |url=http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=80016 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130420190933/http://www.navy.mil/view_single.asp?id=80016 |dead-url=yes |archive-date=20 April 2013 |publisher=[[Navy.mil]] |date=16 January 2010}}</ref>

Navy leaders said that the fixed price competition offered the Austal design an equal shot, in spite of its excess size, cost and limited service.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?/base/news/1260440129204000.xml&coll=3 |title=Navy says the field is level for teams competing for LCS contract |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110609101747/http://www.al.com/news/press-register/metro.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fnews%2F1260440129204000.xml&coll=3 |archivedate=9 June 2011 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> After much inconsistency on how testing and orders were to proceed, in November 2010, the Navy asked that Congress approve ten of each of the ''Independence'' and ''Freedom'' classes.<ref>{{cite web|last=Sessions |first=Jeff |url=http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/library/news/2010/11/mil-101103-sessions01.htm |title=Sessions comments today regarding the Navy's proposal to purchase additional Littoral Combat Ship |work=Office of Jeff Sessions |publisher=GlobalSecurity.org |date=3 November 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.reuters.com/article/2010/11/03/navy-ships-idUSWEN247520101103 |title=US Navy said to buy LCS warships from both bidders |work=[[Reuters]] |date=3 November 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |url=http://www.navytimes.com/news/2010/11/defense-navy-picks-both-lcs-designs-110310/ |title=Navy asks Congress to buy both LCS designs |work=[[Navy Times]] |date=4 November 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

== Design ==
The ''Independence''-class design began life at Austal as a platform for a high-speed [[cruise ship]].  The principal requirements of that project were speed, stability and passenger comfort, and Austal's team determined that the trimaran hull form offered significant passenger comfort and stability advantages over both a catamaran and a monohull.  The high-speed cruise ship project evolved into Austal's commercial high-speed trimaran ferry HSC ''Benchijigua Express''. The ships are {{convert|127.4|m|ft|0|abbr=on}} long, with a beam of {{convert|31.6|m|ft|0|abbr=on}}, and a draft of {{convert|13|ft|m|2|abbr=on}}.<ref name="NVR"/> Their displacement is rated at 2,176 tons light, 2,784 tons full, and 608 tons [[deadweight tonnage|deadweight]].<ref name="NVR"/> The standard [[ship's company]] is 40, although this can increase depending on the ship's role with mission-specific personnel. The habitability area with bunks is located under the bridge. The helm is controlled by joysticks instead of traditional steering wheels.<ref>{{cite web|last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |url=http://militarytimes.com/news/2010/01/navy_insidelook_lcs2_011110w/ |title=LCS 2 features large hangar, bigger berths |work=[[Military Times]] |date=11 January 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

Although the trimaran hull increases the total surface area, it is still able to reach sustainable speeds of about {{convert|50|kn}}, with a range of {{convert|10000|nmi}}.{{Citation needed|date=April 2009}} Austal claims that the design will use a third less fuel than the competing ''Freedom''-class, but the [[Congressional Budget Office]] found that fuel would account for 18 percent or less of the total lifetime cost of ''Freedom''.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.al.com/live/2010/05/navy_not_looking_at_fuel_effic.html |title=Navy not using fuel cost data in LCS competition |publisher=al.com |last=Reilly |first=Sean |date=7 May 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The lack of [[bridge wing]]s on the ''Independence'' class had been noted as the top problem in the entire LCS program to the extent that these will need to be retrofitted onto existing ships.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://aviationweek.com/defense/redeeming-freedom-us-navy-seeks-renew-faith-lcs |title=Redeeming Freedom -- Changes for the U.S. Navy's Littoral Combat Ship |publisher=Aviation Week |last=Fabey |first=Michael |date=30 November 2012 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The lightweight aluminum construction of the ''Independence''-class ships makes them more vulnerable to damage than the ''Freedom''-class ships.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-02-21/ships-leaking-37-billion-reflect-eisenhower-s-warning.html |title=Ships Leaking $37 Billion Reflect Eisenhower’s Warning |work=Bloomberg Business |last=Lerman |first=David |last2=Taborek |first2=Nick |date=20 February 2013 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

The first ships of both LCS classes were delivered before the designs were mature so that improvements could be built into future ships. The Navy is improving the ''Independence''-class with bridge wings for safety and replacing the {{convert|5.1|m|ft|adj=on|0}} Rigid Hull Inflatable Boat (RHIB) with a {{convert|7|m|ft|adj=on|0}} boat. An improved cathodic protection system will enhance corrosion protection.  Like the ''Freedom''-class, the ''Independence'' vessels will be getting axial flow water jets which pushes water parallel to the shaft of the impeller to improve efficiency and reduce maintenance; they will also be upgraded to handle the horsepower provided by the gas turbine propulsion system. A winch control system will modulate the motion of the anchor to reduce the reliance on manual hand brakes. The mission bay side door will be redesigned for reliability and the platform lift elevator reconfigured to better handle weapons and ordnance.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.dodbuzz.com/2014/06/27/navy-engineers-lcs-changes/ |title=Navy Engineers LCS Changes |publisher=DoDBuzz.com |last=Osborn |first=Kris |date=27 June 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

=== Modular mission capability ===
[[File:US Navy 100329-N-1481K-293 USS Independence (LCS 2) arrives at Mole Pier at Naval Air Station Key West.jpg|thumb|left|Stern view of ''Independence'' while in port at NAS Key West]]

The ''Independence''-class carries a default armament for self-defense, and command and control. Unlike traditional fighting ships with fixed armament such as guns and missiles, tailored mission modules can be configured for one mission package at a time. Modules may consist of manned aircraft, unmanned vehicles, off-board sensors, or mission-manning detachments.{{citation needed|date=February 2018}} The interior volume and payload is greater than some destroyers and is sufficient to serve as a high-speed transport and maneuver platform. The mission bay is {{convert|15200|sqft|m2|-1}}, and takes up most of the deck below the hangar and flight deck. With {{convert|11000|m3}} of payload volume, it was designed with enough payload and volume to carry out one mission with a separate mission module in reserve, allowing the ship to do multiple missions without having to be refitted.{{citation needed|date=February 2018}}

One Mobicon Flexible Container Handling System is carried on each ship in order to move mission containers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.supplychainreview.com.au/news/articleid/71026.aspx |title=US Navy snaps up Aussie straddle carrier |publisher=SupplyChain Review |date=25 November 2010 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20110629210611/http://www.supplychainreview.com.au/news/articleid/71026.aspx |archivedate=29 June 2011 }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.mobiconsystems.com/ |title=Mobicon Flexible Container Handling System |publisher=Mobicon Systems|date=2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> In addition to cargo or container-sized mission modules, the bay can carry four lanes of multiple [[Stryker (vehicle)|Strykers]], armored [[Humvee]]s, and their associated troops. An elevator allows air transport of packages the size of a {{convert|20|ft|m|adj=mid|-long}} [[Intermodal container|shipping container]] that can be moved into the mission bay while at sea. A side access ramp allows for vehicle [[roll-on/roll-off]] loading to a dock and would have allowed the ship to transport the since-cancelled [[Expeditionary Fighting Vehicle]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gdlcs.com/sites/default/files/LCS_Brochure_3-10r2_0.pdf |title=Independence-class Littoral Combat Ship |publisher=General Dynamics |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

===Armament and sensors===
[[File:US Navy 100406-N-7653W-094 Sailors and civilian personnel aboard the littoral combat ship USS Independence (LCS 2) hoist a training round into the Sea Rolling Air Frame Missile (SEARAM) launcher.jpg|thumb|upright|right|Crew loading a SEARAM missile launcher]]

The Raytheon [[SeaRAM]] missile defense system is installed on the hangar roof. The SeaRAM combines the sensors of the [[Phalanx CIWS|Phalanx 1B close-in weapon system]] with an 11-missile launcher for the [[RIM-116 Rolling Airframe Missile]], creating an autonomous system.<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://investor.raytheon.com/phoenix.zhtml?c=84193&p=irol-newsArticle&ID=1119746 |title= Raytheon Delivers SeaRAM to USS Independence | publisher=Raytheon Company | date=18 March 2008 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The ''Independence''-class ships also have an integrated LOS Mast, Sea Giraffe 3D Radar and SeaStar Safire FLIR. Northrop Grumman has demonstrated sensor fusion of on and off-board systems in the Integrated Combat Management System (ICMS) used on the LCS.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.globenewswire.com/newsroom/news.html?d=171665 |title=Northrop Grumman-Led Team Demonstrates Means to Effectively Enhance Littoral Warfighting Capabilities |publisher=NASDAQ Global Newswire |date=18 August 2009 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The vessels have an Interior Communications Center that can be curtained off from the rest of bridge instead of the heavily protected [[Combat Information Center]] found on other Navy warships.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.navytimes.com/news/2010/04/defense_navy_independence_041210w/ |title=LCS 2: ‘It’ll blow your mind’ |last=Cavas |first=Christopher |work=NavyTimes |date=12 April 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}} {{subscription required}}</ref>

Side and forward surfaces are angled for reduced radar profile. The {{sclass2-|Fleet|unmanned surface vessel|2}} is designed for operations from ''Independence''-class ships.<ref name="Flight">{{cite web|url=http://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/auvsi-making-a-splash-346474/|title=AUVSI: Making a splash|last=Sobie|first=Brendan|date=24 August 2010|work=Flightglobal|publisher=Reed Business Information|accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The flight deck, {{convert|1030|m2|sqft|abbr=on}}, can support the operation of two [[SH-60 Seahawk]] helicopters, multiple [[unmanned aerial vehicle]]s, or one [[CH-53 Sea Stallion]] helicopter. [[H-60]] series helicopters provide airlift, rescue, anti-submarine, radar picket and anti-ship capabilities with torpedoes and missiles. [[DARPA]]'s [[Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node]] (TERN) program aims to build a [[Medium-altitude long-endurance unmanned aerial vehicle]] (MALE UAV) that can operate from LCS-2 and can carry a payload of {{convert|600|lb|kg}} out to an [[combat radius|operational radius]] of {{convert|600|-|900|nmi|km}}.<ref>{{cite web | url=http://www.darpa.mil/NewsEvents/Releases/2013/03/01.aspx | title=DARPA’s New TERN Program Aims for Eyes in the Sky from the Sea | date=1 March 2013 | publisher=DARPA | accessdate=30 May 2015 | deadurl=yes | archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20130515143650/http://www.darpa.mil/NewsEvents/Releases/2013/03/01.aspx | archivedate=15 May 2013 | df=dmy-all }}</ref> First flight of a TERN demonstrator is expected in 2017.<ref>{{cite web | url=https://www.fbo.gov/index?s=opportunity&mode=form&id=82f60f1cc7d08e541fbddefd902a53f6&tab=core&_cview=1 | title=Tactically Exploited Reconnaissance Node (TERN) Program Solicitation Number: DARPA-BAA-13-28 | date=26 March 2013 | accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The trimaran hull will allow flight operations up to [[sea state]] 5.<ref>[http://ussindependenceship.org/overview_ship.php USS Independence LCS 2 - General Info]  {{webarchive |url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101018005222/http://ussindependenceship.org/overview_ship.php |date=18 October 2010 }}</ref> Austal USA vice president Craig Hooper has responded to critics of the class's light armament by suggesting that the ships employ long range drones instead.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.military.com/daily-news/2013/04/08/lcs-maker-responds-to-ships-fire-power-critics.html |title=LCS Maker Responds to Ship's Firepower Critics |last1=Cox |first1=Matthew |date=8 April 2013 |work=Military.com |publisher=Military Advantage |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

On 19 July 2016, while participating in the [[Exercise RIMPAC|Rim of the Pacific Exercise]], ''Coronado'' was used to conduct a live-fire missile test of a [[Harpoon (missile)|Block 1C Harpoon]] [[anti-ship missile]].<ref name="BI LCS Harpoon Test">{{cite news |url=http://www.businessinsider.com/us-naval-strategy-just-came-to-fruition-2016-7  |title=A major element of US Naval strategy came to fruition in this 15-second clip |publisher=[[Business Insider]] |last=Lockie |first=Alex |date=21 July 2016 |accessdate=23 July 2016}}</ref>  While the missile failed to destroy its target, the test validated the ability to launch high-powered missiles from the forward deck of an ''Independence''-class vessel, which is expected to lead to deployment of Harpoon missiles on future LCS missions.<ref name="BI LCS Harpoon Test" />

===Control system===
The control system for this class is provided by [[General Dynamics Advanced Information Systems]] through an [[open architecture]] computing infrastructure (OPEN CI),<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.gd-ais.com/News/General-Dynamics-to-Deliver-Open-Architecture-based-Combat-Systems-for-10-Littoral-Combat-Ships/ |title=General Dynamics to Deliver Open Architecture-based Combat Systems for 10 Littoral Combat Ships |publisher=General Dynamics |date=3 January 2011 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> while Lockheed provides their own control system for their variant of the LCS.<ref>{{cite web|last=Murtaugh |first=Dan |url=http://blog.al.com/press-register-business/2011/01/austal_taps_general_dynamics_f.html |title=Austal taps General Dynamics for LCS combat systems |work=[[Press-Register]] |publisher=al.com |date=3 January 2010 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> OPEN CI includes the information technology (IT) infrastructure for the combat and seaframe control systems. This IT infrastructure also includes the primary operator interface for the control and monitoring of mission module operations.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.gd-ais.com/News/General-Dynamics-Successfully-Integrates-Littoral-Combat-Ship-Mission-Package-Computing-Environment |title=General Dynamics Successfully Integrates Littoral Combat Ship Mission Package Computing Environment |publisher=General Dynamics |date=18 March 2008 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20140514160857/http://www.gd-ais.com/News/General-Dynamics-Successfully-Integrates-Littoral-Combat-Ship-Mission-Package-Computing-Environment |archivedate=14 May 2014 }}</ref> The General Dynamics OPEN CI is also used on the Austal-built {{sclass-|Spearhead|Joint High Speed Vessel}}.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.gd-ais.com/Capabilities/Our-Approach/OPEN-CI |title=OPEN CI: The Power of Open Architecture |publisher=General Dynamics |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

===Corrosion management===
After the lead ship of the class suffered from aggressive disintegration due to [[galvanic corrosion]], Austal has made changes to the remaining ships in the class. ''Coronado'' will have "new anti-corrosion surface treatments", and ''Jackson'' will have "an array of tested corrosion-management tools and processes".<ref>{{cite web |last=Axe |first=David |url=https://www.wired.com/2011/07/plenty-of-blame-to-go-around-for-disappearing-warship/ |title=Plenty of Blame to Go Around for ‘Disappearing’ Warship |work=Wired |date=5 July 2011 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

==Small Surface Combatant==
In December 2014, the Navy's recommendation to base the Small Surface Combatant on upgraded versions of both ''Independence'' and ''Freedom'' LCSs was accepted.  The SSC is an attempt by the Navy to increase the LCS' firepower and protection.  Although Austal submitted improvements including vertical launch systems, 76&nbsp;mm guns, and advanced combat systems and sensors, the Navy opted to keep the 57&nbsp;mm gun, not add a VLS, and chose to add an upgraded 3-D radar.  Other changes included installation of an unspecified over-the-horizon missile, [[M242 Bushmaster|Mark 38 25 mm guns]], a torpedo countermeasures system, a multifunction towed array system, installation of a [[SeaRAM]] launcher (on the ''Freedom''-class), an upgraded countermeasures decoy system, an upgraded [[electronic warfare]] system, armor added to vital spaces, and improved signature management. The SSC will focus on Surface Warfare (SUW) and Anti-submarine Warfare (ASW) with these additions, as well as retaining all other features of their mission packages; the SSC is not required to perform MCM, which will continue to be handled by the LCS. The vessels will retain a degree of modularity to concentrate on one mission set and will still have mission bays, although they may be reduced. SSC vessels are planned to begin procurement by 2019, and it is being investigated if the enhancements can be added to existing LCS hulls.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.defensenews.com/article/20141211/DEFREG02/312110041/Hagel-New-Ship-Based-LCS |title=Split Decision on New US Navy Ship |last=Cavas |first=Christopher P. |publisher=Defensenews.com |date=11 December 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2015 }}</ref>

==Derivative designs==
Austal has proposed a much smaller and slower trimaran, called the 'Multi Role Vessel' (MRV 80). Though it is only half the size of their LCS design, it would still be useful for border protection and counter piracy operations.<ref>{{cite web|title=Multi Role Vessel MRV80|publisher=Austal|year=2010|url=http://www.austal.com/Resources/Deliveries/4a74c8d1-9ece-4ea8-8693-bcf8493e31cf/mrv-80-data-sheets-sml.pdf|accessdate=30 May 2015|deadurl=yes|archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20120305162307/http://www.austal.com/Resources/Deliveries/4a74c8d1-9ece-4ea8-8693-bcf8493e31cf/mrv-80-data-sheets-sml.pdf|archivedate=5 March 2012|df=dmy-all}}</ref> In April 2017, Austal unveiled an updated LCS frigate design called the "Austal Frigate." Based on the ''Independence'' frigate hull, it features a slightly shorter flight deck for an aft section that can hold eight anti-ship missiles, an addition to the eight missile launchers in the forward section for 16 total, and a [[variable depth sonar]] with its handling system as well as a [[towed array]]. The Austal Frigate design can also feature an optional 16-cell [[Mk 41 VLS]].<ref>[http://navyrecognition.com/index.php/news/naval-exhibitions/2017/sea-air-space-2017-show-daily-news/5068-sas-2017-austal-unveils-updated-lcs-frigate-design-with-16x-anti-ship-missiles.html Austal Unveils Updated LCS Frigate Design with 16x Anti-Ship Missiles] - Navyrecognition.com, 5 April 2017</ref>

==Ships==
===Ship order and naming history===
The Navy originally ordered two ''Independence''-class littoral combat ships, the lead ship ''Independence'' (LCS-2) and ''Coronado'' (LCS-4), named in March 2009 by then-[[Secretary of the Navy]] [[Donald C. Winter]], with odd numbers being used for ''Freedom''-class littoral combat ships.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www3.signonsandiego.com/stories/2009/mar/15/1m15coronado22541-future-warship-bear-citys-name/?zIndex=67291|title=San Diego Union-Tribune, Future Warship To Bear The City's Name|publisher=signonsandiego.com|date=15 March 2009|accessdate=1 November 2015}}</ref> On 29 December 2010, the Navy announced that it would be ordering up to ten additional ''Independence''-class ships, for a total of 12 ships in the class.<ref name="NNS101229-09" /> On 25 March 2011, then-Secretary of the Navy [[Ray Mabus]] announced the names of the third and fourth ''Independence''-class ships, {{USS|Jackson|LCS-6|3}} and {{USS|Montgomery|LCS-8|3}}, during a press conference in Mobile, Alabama.<ref>{{cite press release | url=http://www.public.navy.mil/surfor/lcs6/Pages/NavyNamesNextTwoLittoralCombatShips.aspx |title=Navy Names Next Two Littoral Combat Ships |language= |author=Department of Defense Public Affairs |publisher=[[United States Department of Defense]] |date=25 March 2011 |accessdate=2 November 2015 }}</ref> In February 2012, Secretary Mabus announced that the fifth ship of the class will be named {{USS|Gabrielle Giffords|LCS-10|3}}, and the sixth named {{USS|Omaha|LCS-12|3}}.<ref>{{cite press release | title=Navy Names Littoral Combat Ship Gabrielle Giffords |author=Department of the Navy |id=NNS120210-25 |publisher=Navy News Service | url=http://www.navy.mil/search/display.asp?story_id=65287 | date=10 February 2012 |accessdate=10 December 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.wowt.com/news/headlines/Introducing_the_USS_Omaha_139388048.html?ref=048 |title=Introducing... The USS Omaha |work=WOWT |date=15 February 2012 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> The Navy announced the name {{USS|Manchester|LCS-14|3}} in April 2013<ref name="Manchester">{{cite press release | title=Secretary of the Navy Names Multiple Ships | publisher=U.S. Department of Defense | url=http://www.defense.gov/releases/release.aspx?releaseid=15932 |id=237-13 |date=12 April 2013 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> {{USS|Tulsa|LCS-16|3}} the following June.<ref name="Tulsa">{{cite press release | title=SecNav Names Multiple Ships |author=Department of Defense Public Affairs |id=NNS130606-21 |publisher=Navy News Service |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=74674 |date=6 June 2013 |accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref>

On 11 March 2014, the Navy awarded contract options to fund construction of LCS-18 and LCS-20, the seventh and eighth ships in a 10-ship contract.<ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.austal.com/us/media/media-releases/14-03-11/U-S-Navy-funds-two-further-Littoral-Combat-Ships.aspx |title=US Navy funds two further Littoral Combat Ships |date=11 March 2014 |publisher=[[Austal USA]] |accessdate=30 May 2015 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20141202064741/http://www.austal.com/us/media/media-releases/14-03-11/U-S-Navy-funds-two-further-Littoral-Combat-Ships.aspx |archivedate=2 December 2014 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> In January 2015, Secretary Mabus announced the name of {{USS|Charleston|LCS-18|3}}.<ref name="Charleston">{{cite news | title=USS Charleston an easy choice, Navy Secretary says | work=The Post and Courier | url=http://www.postandcourier.com/article/20150109/PC16/150109467/1177/uss-charleston-an-easy-choice-navy-secretary-says |last=Kropf |first=Schuyler |date=9 January 2015 | accessdate=30 May 2015}}</ref> and {{USS|Cincinnati|LCS-20|3}} the following July. On 1 April 2015, the Navy awarded build contracts for LCS-22 and LCS-24 to Austal USA.<ref>{{cite news |first=Grace |last=Jean |title=USN awards FY 2015 LCS contracts |url=http://www.janes.com/article/50397/usn-awards-fy-2015-lcs-contracts |date=1 April 2015 |publisher=IHS Jane's Navy International |accessdate=11 June 2015}}</ref><ref>{{cite press release|url=http://www.austal.com/us/media/media-releases/15-04-02/U-S-Navy-funds-two-further-littoral-combat-ships-with-option-added-for-a-third.aspx |title=U.S. Navy funds two further Littoral Combat Ships, with option added for a third |date=2 April 2015 |publisher=Austal |accessdate=11 June 2015 |deadurl=yes |archiveurl=https://web.archive.org/web/20150613153414/http://www.austal.com/us/media/media-releases/15-04-02/U-S-Navy-funds-two-further-littoral-combat-ships-with-option-added-for-a-third.aspx |archivedate=13 June 2015 |df=dmy-all }}</ref> On 20 July 2015, at a [[Kansas City Royals]] baseball game being played at Kauffman Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, Secretary Mabus and Mayor Sly James announced the name of {{USS|Kansas City|LCS-22|3}}.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.kansascity.com/news/local/article27979003.html |title=New USS Kansas City shown off before Royals game |work=The Kansas City Star |last=Campbell |first=Matt |date=20 July 2015 |accessdate=21 July 2015}}</ref> On 20 August 2015, Secretary Mabus announced that the twelfth ship would be named {{USS|Oakland|LCS-24|3}}.<ref name="NR-333-15">{{cite press release |url=http://www.defense.gov/News/News-Releases/News-Release-View/Article/614332/secretary-of-the-navy-names-littoral-combat-ship |title=Secretary of the Navy Names Littoral Combat Ship |date=20 August 2015 |id=NR-333-15 |publisher=U.S. Department of Defense |accessdate=20 August 2015}}</ref>

On 31 March 2016, Austal announced the order to build the thirteenth ''Independence''-class vessel with a congressional cost cap of $564 million, which had been placed as an option under Austal's existing 10-vessel block-buy contract.<ref name="Austal PR LCS26 Order">{{cite press release|url=http://austal.com/news/us-navy-funds-additional-littoral-combat-ship |title= U.S. Navy Funds Additional Littoral Combat Ship |publisher=Austal |date=31 March 2016}}</ref> LCS-26 will be the eleventh vessel built under that contract and the thirteenth ''Independence''-class vessel overall (the first two ships, ''Independence'' and ''Coronado'' were built prior to award of the 10-vessel contract).<ref name="Austal PR LCS26 Order" /> In September 2016, Secretary Mabus announced the name of the next ship, {{USS|Mobile|LCS-26|3}}.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://altoday.com/archives/12497-u-s-navys-next-littoral-combat-ship-named-uss-mobile|title=US Navy's next littoral combat ship named USS ''Mobile''|date=22 September 2016|accessdate=6 February 2018}}</ref> On 26 June 2017, Austal announced the order to build the fourteenth ''Independence''-class vessel with a congressional cost cap of $584 million.<ref name="Austal PR LCS28 Order">{{cite press release|url=http://usa.austal.com/news/austal-usa-awarded-littoral-combat-ship-28 |title=Austal USA Awarded Littoral Combat Ship 28 |publisher=Austal |date=26 June 2017}}</ref> On 8 October 2017 Austal announced the order for LCS-30, the fifteenth ship of the class, to be built at a cost under the congressional cost cap of $584 million.<ref name="Austal PR LCS30 Order">{{cite press release|url=http://usa.austal.com/LCS_30_award |title=Austal USA Awarded Littoral Combat Ship 30 |publisher=Austal |date=8 October 2017}}</ref> On 13 February 2018, Navy Secretary [[Richard V. Spencer]] announced the name of LCS-28 as ''Savannah'',<ref name= "lcs name">{{cite web|url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=104365|title=Secretary of the Navy Names Two Littoral Combat Ships|publisher=navy.mil|date=13 February 2018|accessdate=14 February 2018}}</ref> and on 23 February 2018, President [[Donald Trump]] announced the name of LCS-30 as ''Canberra''.<ref name= "lcs30">{{cite web |url=http://www.canberratimes.com.au/act-news/donald-trump-announces-newest-us-warship-to-be-named-after-canberra-20180224-h0wkzp.html |title=Donald Trump announces newest US warship to be named after Canberra/ |work=[[The Canberra Times]] |publisher=[[Fairfax Media]] |date=23 February 2018 |accessdate=23 February 2018}}</ref>

On 18 September 2018, the Navy announced that two additional ''Independence''-class ships, and one ''Freedom''-class ship, have been ordered,<ref name= "New LCS"/> with hull codes LCS-32, LCS-34 and LCS-29 respectively. On 10 October 2018, Navy Secretary Richard Spencer announced the names of LCS-29 as ''Beloit'', for [[Beloit, Wisconsin]] and LCS-32 as ''Santa Barbara'', for [[Santa Barbara, California]].<ref>{{cite web|url=https://navaltoday.com/2018/10/10/us-navy-names-two-more-littoral-combat-ships/|title=US Navy names two more littoral combat ships|publisher=navaltoday.com|date=10 October 2018|accessdate=10 October 2018}}</ref>

On 16 December 2018, the Navy announced that two additional Independence-class ships have been ordered with hull codes LCS-36, and LCS-38.
<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.austal.com/news/austal-awarded-lcs-36-and-38 |title=AUSTAL AWARDED LCS 36, AND 38|publisher=Austal |date=16 December 2018 |accessdate=17 December 2018}}</ref>

===Ships in class=== 
{| class="wikitable"
|-
! Ship
! Hull Number
! Laid down
! Launched
! Commissioned
! Status
|-
|{{USS|Independence|LCS-2|2}}
|LCS-2
|19 January 2006
|26 April 2008
|16 January 2010<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=50586 |title=USS Independence Commissioned |author=Surface Forces Public Affairs |publisher=Navy News Service |id=NNS100116-31 |date=6 January 2010 |accessdate=10 December 2015}}</ref>
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Coronado|LCS-4|2}}
|LCS-4
|17 December 2009
|14 January 2012
|5 April 2014<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=80160 |title=USS Coronado Commissioned in Namesake City |author=Senior Chief Mass Communication Specialist Donnie W. Ryan, Naval Surface Force, U.S. Pacific Fleet Public Affairs |publisher=Navy News Service |id=NNS140405-05 |date=5 April 2014 |accessdate=10 December 2015 }}</ref>
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Jackson|LCS-6|2}}
|LCS-6
|1 August 2011
|14 December 2013
|5 December 2015<ref>{{cite press release |url=http://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=92306 |title=USS Jackson (LCS 6) Commissioned |author=MC2 Kathleen L. Church |publisher=Navy News Service |id=NNS151207-02 |date=5 December 2015 |accessdate=10 December 2015 }}</ref>
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Montgomery|LCS-8|2}}
|LCS-8
|25 June 2013
|6 August 2014
|10 September 2016<ref name="LCS8Commissioned">{{cite news |url=http://www.montgomeryadvertiser.com/story/news/local/alabama/2016/09/10/man-our-ship-uss-montgomery-commissioned/90141892/ |title='Man our ship': USS Montgomery commissioned |newspaper=[[Montgomery Advertiser]] |last=Yawn |first=Andrew J. |date=10 September 2016 |accessdate=11 September 2016}}</ref>
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Gabrielle Giffords|LCS-10|2}}
|LCS-10
|16 April 2014
|25 February 2015
|10 June 2017
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Omaha|LCS-12|2}}
|LCS-12
|18 February 2015
|20 November 2015
|3 February 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.omaha.com/news/military/uss-omaha-will-be-commissioned-in-san-diego-today/article_32cbd5cd-ee03-51aa-93de-284e4735f199.html|title=USS ''Omaha'' will be commissioned in San Diego today|date=3 February 2018|accessdate=3 February 2018}}</ref>
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Manchester|LCS-14|2}}
|LCS-14
|29 June 2015
|12 May 2016
|26 May 2018
|Active in service
|-
|{{USS|Tulsa|LCS-16|2}}
|LCS-16
|11 January 2016
|16 March 2017
|16 February 2019
|Fitting out
|-
|{{USS|Charleston|LCS-18|2}}
|LCS-18
|28 June 2016
|14 September 2017
|
|Fitting out
|-
|{{USS|Cincinnati|LCS-20|2}}
|LCS-20
|10 April 2017
|22 May 2018
|
|Fitting out
|-
|{{USS|Kansas City|LCS-22|2}}
|LCS-22
|15 November 2017
|19 October 2018<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.kshb.com/news/local-news/uss-kansas-city-released-into-mobile-river|title=USS Kansas City released into Mobile River|publisher=kshb.com|date=19 October 2018|accessdate=20 October 2018}}</ref>
|
|Fitting out
|-
|{{USS|Oakland|LCS-24|2}}
|LCS-24
|20 July 2018
|
|
|Under construction
|-
|{{USS|Mobile|LCS-26|2}}
|LCS-26
|14 December 2018<ref>https://navaltoday.com/2018/12/18/us-navy-lays-keel-for-littoral-combat-ship-mobile-lcs-26/</ref>
|
|
|Under construction
|-
|{{USS|Savannah|LCS-28|2}}
|LCS-28
|
|
|
|Under construction
|-
|{{USS|Canberra|LCS-30|2}}
|LCS-30
|
|
|
|On order
|-
|{{USS|Santa Barbara|LCS-32|2}}
|LCS-32
|
|
|
|On order<ref name="New LCS">{{cite web|url=https://www.navy.mil/submit/display.asp?story_id=107121|title=Navy Awards Three Littoral Combat Ships|publisher=navy.mil|date=18 September 2018|accessdate=19 September 2018}}</ref>
|-
|{{USS|Augusta|LCS-34|2}}
|LCS-34
|
|
|
|On order
|-
|{{USS|Kingsville|LCS-36|2}} 
|LCS-36
|
|
|
|On order
|-
|{{USS|Pierre|LCS-38|2}} 
|LCS-38
|
|
|
|On order
|}

==In popular culture==
*USS ''Independence'' appears in the Discovery Channel documentary ''Inside: A 21st Century Warship'', which also features {{USS|Freedom|LCS-1}}.

==See also==
* [[Independence-class littoral mission vessel|''Independence''-class littoral mission vessel]]
* [[Sea Slice|HSV ''Sea Slice'']], SLICE catamaran
* [[Sea Fighter|''Sea Fighter'' (FSF-1)]], SWATH catamaran
* {{ship||Sea Shadow|IX-529|3}}, stealth catamaran
* {{ship|RV|Triton}}, British trimaran warship demonstrator

==References==
{{reflist|30em}}

==External links==
{{commons category|Independence-class littoral combat ship}}
* [http://usa.austal.com/ships/littoral-combat-ship-lcs-0 Independence-class littoral combat ships on Austal USA official website]

{{Littoral combat ships}}

[[Category:Independence-class littoral combat ships| ]]
[[Category:Active naval ships of the United States]]
[[Category:Trimarans]]